COVID-19 Response Fund FAQs

I’m an individual who’s been affected by COVID-19. Can this Fund help me?We understand many individuals and families have been affected by the outbreak already and more will continue to be affected. On behalf of the Fund’s partners, Seattle Foundation is working to move resources to community-based organizations that are directly supporting local residents and families who are most affected by emerging health, economic, and social impacts.

My organization is interested in resources from this Fund. Can we be considered?We understand the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting nonprofits in many ways, including increased demand for their services, lost revenue due to closures and cancelations, as well as other challenges. We are working closely with the Fund’s advisory body to ensure that the grants awarded meet the greatest needs in communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. The current phase of funding is focused on childcare, mental and behavior health, and emergency financial assistance.

For emergency financial assistance, we are hosting an application process, with applications due May 29. (Click here to see the application.) For the childcare and mental and behavioral health tracks, we are working with tables of experts to identify organizations that fit the criteria. If you wish, you may email us to make sure we are aware of your organizations work in these areas.

As we plan for future rounds of funding, you are welcome to email us to make sure we are aware of your organization’s work supporting vulnerable residents and families. We have also compiled a list of tools and resources you may find useful.

I want to donate. Can I restrict my funding to a prioritized grantee?
To ensure we move resources as efficiently as possible and respond to needs of communities most impacted, we are not considering restricted donations at this time. The COVID-19 Response Fund was created in hopes of providing a way to coordinate as many resources as possible.

Should I give to this Fund instead of making other donations?
This Fund was not created to be the only vehicle resourcing critical community activities during this crisis. Rather it is working to facilitate getting more targeted resources into the community where they’re needed most. If the COVID-19 Response Fund priorities align with your values, please consider making a donation.

This is a critical time for so many, including the nonprofit organizations who’ve benefited from your giving in the past, as well as those who’ve had to cancel their annual fundraising events or depend heavily on public gatherings. Please continue to give to organizations you regularly support, and those that need your help at this crucial time. Now is the time to double down for our community as we gain greater awareness of the depth and scale of the long-term ramifications of the pandemic.

I would like to help raise money for the Fund through a special promotion or my own online fundraiser. How can I do that?
Many people are raising money by dedicating various proceeds to the Fund or hosting their own special fundraisers online. Our team can get you the information and promotional tools you need. Download our toolkit for promotional partners or email Zandra Grissom with questions.

Is there a geographic area of focus for the Fund?
The COVID-19 Response Fund will prioritize community-based organizations serving the greater Puget Sound region. We are doing this with a recognition that many King County nonprofits serve workers and residents in our neighboring counties. We also know that there are many organizations in Snohomish, Pierce, and Kitsap Counties that have broader footprints, serving King County residents.

Is there a fee to contribute?
With a focus on getting resources out to the community in this critical time, there is no administrative fee for participating in the Fund. 100% of donations will go to community groups and leaders on the ground, except for a credit card fee for online donations, which is 3.75% + $0.35 per transaction. Seattle Foundation is covering the cost of approximately 10 staff leading this effort.

Seattle Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) organization. Charity Navigator has awarded Seattle Foundation four out of a possible four stars for good governance and adhering to best practices.